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formaldehyde
noun
form·al·de·hyde
fȯr-ˈmal-də-ˌhīd
fər-
: a colorless pungent irritating gas CH2O used chiefly in aqueous solution as a disinfectant and preservative and in chemical synthesis
Examples of formaldehyde in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The 13 Best Inexpensive Sheet Sets of 2024, Tested by BHG
What to Avoid When Shopping for Sheets
Stay away from sheets with finishes marketed as wrinkle-free or extra-soft because they're often made with powerful chemicals like formaldehyde.
—Bryce Jones, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Sep. 2024
Just remember: stay away from the river, and never trust a mysterious American scientist bearing formaldehyde!
—Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 17 Sep. 2024
Oil wells emit likely carcinogens, including benzene and formaldehyde, and living near wells is linked to health problems including respiratory issues and preterm births, according to studies.
—Dakota Smith, Los Angeles Times, 12 Sep. 2024
In 2019, the company agreed to pay $33 million in penalties for misleading investors about the formaldehyde.
—Jordan Valinsky, CNN, 4 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for formaldehyde
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Word History
Etymology
International Scientific Vocabulary form- + aldehyde
First Known Use
1872, in the meaning defined above
Phrases Containing formaldehyde
Dictionary Entries Near formaldehyde
Cite this Entry
“Formaldehyde.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/formaldehyde. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
formaldehyde
noun
form·al·de·hyde
fȯr-ˈmal-də-ˌhīd
fər-
: a colorless gas that consists of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, has a sharp irritating odor, and when dissolved in water is used to disinfect or to prevent decay
Medical Definition
formaldehyde
noun
form·al·de·hyde
fȯr-ˈmal-də-ˌhīd, fər-
: a colorless pungent irritating gas CH2O used chiefly as a disinfectant and preservative and in chemical synthesis
More from Merriam-Webster on formaldehyde
Nglish: Translation of formaldehyde for Spanish Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about formaldehyde
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